Authors of a recent study, utilizing multiple genomic platforms to analyze primary tumors and their paired metastases, have identified unique molecular features believed to be responsible for the development and growth of metastatic breast cancer. One of the prominent observations made in the study involves changes in the immune system due, partially, to methylation of the HLA-A gene. Biological changes were also observed in patients, including a loss of immune activation, particularly in the liver and brain. Researchers believe that many of the changes could be reversed and are optimistic for future therapies to treat, or possibly even prevent, metastatic breast cancer.
Reference:
Study Identifies Potential Molecular Differences Between Primary Breast Cancer and Its Metastases. The ASCO Post. Published January 11, 2023. Accessed January 27, 2023. https://ascopost.com/news/january-2023/study-identifies-potential-molecular-differences-between-primary-breast-cancer-and-its-metastases/
